Pension reduction upon dishonorable discharge... If I am discharged now, can I prevent it?

A dishonorable discharge refers to being forced to end military service due to conduct that damages one's dignity as a soldier or violates the law.

This leaves a significant stain on a soldier's honor, and it also seriously affects pension entitlement.

The Military Pension Act places restrictions on the pension entitlement of soldiers who are dishonorably discharged. The details are as follows.

▶ Changes to Military Pension Benefits upon Dishonorable Discharge

- Removal by disciplinary action: 50% reduction of retirement benefits and retirement allowance

- Disciplinary dismissal due to receiving money or entertainment, or embezzlement or misappropriation of public funds: 25% reduction of retirement benefits and retirement allowance

- Confirmation of a sentence of imprisonment without labor or heavier for a crime committed during service: 50% reduction of retirement benefits and retirement allowance

- Confirmation of a sentence of imprisonment without labor or heavier for crimes such as insurrection, foreign aggression, rebellion, or aiding the enemy during service: revocation of pension entitlement

Therefore, in order to avoid serious consequences such as a dishonorable discharge or a pension reduction, it is advisable to consult about the dishonorable discharge with an attorney who has a deep understanding of military law and to prepare an appropriate response strategy.